Dr. Alejandra Ruiz Zapata, PhD, MSc, Eng.
Alejandra is a Biomedical Engineer from Colombia with over 15 years of experience in research and development across academia and industry. She holds a Master of Science in Engineering and Physical Sciences from Imperial College London and a PhD in Medicine from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, where she developed complex in vitro models to study pelvic organ prolapse (P.O.P.)—a condition affecting nearly half of women after menopause.
Her passion for biomedical engineering was sparked by a documentary featuring the regeneration of a human ear on the back of a mouse. Determined to make a difference in the field, she pursued her bachelor’s degree and set out to expand her expertise internationally.
To fund her education and broaden her network, she worked across various industries, an experience that not only enriched her perspective but also led her to meet her violinist husband. Alejandra’s exceptional scientific talent earned her a prestigious internship in Professor Molly Stevens’ renowned tissue engineering research group. From there, she pursued a PhD in Amsterdam, contributing to groundbreaking research on P.O.P. and gynecological health. Her multidisciplinary approach and commitment to advancing women’s healthcare set her apart as a leader in her field.
Transitioning from academia into the biopharmaceutical industry, Alejandra found her place in Nijmegen, where she deepened her expertise in production process development. technology transfer and industry-driven innovation. Her resilience and passion for regenerative medicine led her to BioMed, where she continues to make an impact.
At BioMed, Alejandra plays a crucial role in developing medical devices, optimizing quality management systems, and supporting cleanroom production. She brings her experience on pre-clinical research and knowledge on soft tissue repair and regeneration. One of her standout contributions is managing the product development of a product aimed at alleviating chronic bladder pain. This project is part of the Interreg NanoGel consortium, in collaboration with the Urology Department at the Radboudumc and allows her to combine laboratory work with project management, strengthening her leadership and teamwork skills.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Alejandra enjoys cycling to work—an opportunity she didn’t have as much of before moving to the Netherlands. She has a deep appreciation for travel, museums, and nature. A proud Colombian, she loves to dance salsa, merengue, and vallenato but also embraces the quieter moments, indulging in books and movies on the Netherlands’ many rainy days.